Monthly Archives:March 2011

Post navigation

I’ve always wrestled with feelings of being “less than”. I can look back over my life and remember times of feeling that I just don’t measure up. Thoughts such as, “I’m not pretty” or “I’m not smart enough” or “I’m too shy” or “I’m too quirky”. Clearly these aren’t productive thoughts, but the truth is, I have them. Even now, they creep into my being if I’m not careful. It pains me to admit that I wrestle with some of these things. But, I suppose that I’m not alone in these thoughts.

I recently received a prayer request from someone who wanted to be free from the hatred and anger she has for herself. It reminded me that so often we walk around in life like we have it altogether, yet sometimes they’re just appearances. My heart breaks for this woman and the reality is we’re surrounded by hurting people. So today, I’m stepping out and sharing my own insecurities in hopes of helping someone else.

So what can we do when we have negative thoughts about ourselves? Instead of resisting the thoughts, we need to replace them. There’s a big difference. Resisting still leads to focusing on the negative thought. I can try to convince myself that they’re lies, but what I really need to do is focus on the truth.

And here’s the truth: I am loved by God. I am a beautiful creation of God. I am capable of doing whatever He calls me to do. I am unique and special. And I am redeemed by Him.

The same is true of you! I hope that you’ll focus on God’s truth and see yourself through His eyes. He loves you more than a parent loves a child. You’ll be free to live your full potential in Him when you can see His truth. I pray that you’ll embrace His truth today and experience the healing thoughts that He can provide.

Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. John 8:32

At 7 a.m. this morning I told my son that he would get to spend the night at his grandma’s house tonight and that he would be going there after lunch. His response was quick and emphatic. “Let’s eat lunch now!”

Of course I had to chuckle, but couldn’t help to also think of how his impatience mirrors mine.

We want things NOW. So what happens when we have to wait? I’ve had to do my share of waiting when it comes to getting a response from God. And although I know that His timeframe is never the same as mine, waiting is always a bit of a struggle for me. OK, maybe more of struggle than just a bit.

But, I’ve learned an important lesson. Waiting is not a passive activity. There’s lots to do while we wait. We are to continue praying while we wait. We are to praise Him while we wait. We’re to continue living while we wait. We’re to keep studying and seeking while we wait… I think you get the point.

Lots can happen while we wait. He can teach us, grow us, prepare us, position us, change us… Let’s trade our frustration in the waiting for hope and excitement as we look for evidence of Him in our circumstances. You may be pleasantly surprised to see that His fingerprints are all over your life.

Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:14

I’ve been studying the book of Exodus in the Bible lately. (Yes, on purpose!) I never realized what a fascinating book it was. Perhaps I like it because I can relate to the Israelites on so many levels.

They wander.

They make bad choices and disobey God.

They whine and complain.

Hopefully that doesn’t sum up who I am, but I can certainly behave in such ways sometimes.

I’m amazed at how they experienced the very presence of God, His miracles (release from Egypt, parting of the Red Sea), His provisions (manna), His direction and yet they complained – incessantly. God was very patient, but it ultimately demonstrated their lack of trust in God and they never entered the Promised Land as a result.

Ugh! They forfeited the very thing they were after because they couldn’t seem to focus on what God was doing amongst them. Instead, they were constantly looking at what they lacked or feared.

I get so sad for them. And then I think about us. How many of us give up our Promised Land (peace, joy, contentment, acceptance, forgiveness) because we’re focused on the wrong things? Let’s not focus on circumstances and instead focus on Him. It’s such a better view and we’ll be blessed beyond measure when we do. We’ll find joy in living because of Him.

Remember, life is not a destination… it’s a journey. Let’s not miss out on the abundance that He has planned for us simply because our thoughts are out of focus. Take time to make adjustments in your actions and thought life so you can experience His best for you.

I promise. It’s well worth the effort.

For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills; a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills. When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Deuteronomy 8:7-10

Post navigation

Get your free copy of my Bible Study Journaling Template

If you struggle to find time in your busy schedule to read the Bible and apply it to daily life, then journaling may help. My Bible Study Journaling Template is a great way to find more meaning and personal application from God's word in as few as 10 minutes. Let this resource help you go deeper in your faith.

Get your copy today by subscribing to my free email newsletter.

Subscribe to our mailing list

* indicates required

Email Address *

First Name *

Last Name

Welcome

Cindy Shufflebarger is an author and speaker with a passion for helping women enjoy more… not more stuff, or more success, but more life. She points the way to a life of abundance and freedom through a meaningful relationship with God. Having experienced His grace and love, her desire is for others to discover it too. Her message will give you hope as you:

•Build your confidence to follow God in faith instead of living in fear.